Having a baby is supposed to be the happiest time of your life. So why do you feel this way?
If you’re experiencing something other than pure joy, or in addition to it, you’re not a bad parent. You’re not failing. What you may be experiencing is a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder, and it is far more common than most people realize. More importantly, it is treatable.
What Postpartum Mental Health Looks Like
Postpartum depression is the most well-known, but it’s not the only condition that can affect new and expecting parents. The perinatal period includes pregnancy through the first year postpartum, and mental health challenges can emerge at any point.
Postpartum depression can look like persistent sadness, feeling disconnected from your baby, loss of interest in things you normally enjoy, exhaustion beyond typical new-parent tired, and thoughts that you’re not a good enough parent or that your family would be better off without you.
Postpartum anxiety is extremely common and can show up as intrusive worries about the baby’s safety, difficulty sleeping even when the baby sleeps, irritability, a sense of impending doom, or racing thoughts that won’t stop.
Postpartum OCD involves intrusive, distressing thoughts about harm coming to the baby. These are ego-dystonic (they feel horrifying to you, which is different from intent).
Postpartum PTSD can develop after a traumatic birth experience.
Birth partners and fathers can also experience postpartum depression and anxiety. This is real, valid, and worth addressing.
How We Support Postpartum Mental Health
Our therapists provide a warm, non-judgmental space where you can say what you’re actually feeling — not the version you think you’re supposed to say. We use evidence-based approaches including CBT, mindfulness-based therapy, and trauma-informed care as appropriate.
We also help partners and family members understand what’s happening and how to provide meaningful support.
Where to Get Postpartum Therapy in San Antonio
Green Mountain Counseling serves parents throughout San Antonio. Telehealth sessions are available for clients who prefer to meet from home, which is often more practical with a new baby. We offer flexible scheduling, immediate availability within a week, and accept most insurance plans. Contact us today to get started with postpartum therapy.